IF you’re looking for a winter getaway that really won’t break the bank, then look no further than this Bulgarian town.
The experts athoppa analysed dozens of European locations to find the most budget-friendly depending on factors like cost of a hotel and possibly what matters most to Brits – the average price of a pint.
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Bansko in Bulgaria has some of the cheapest drinks and accommodation in EuropeCredit: AlamyThe town also offers affordable ski passes tooCredit: Alamy
Coming in second place, but having the cheapest price of pints of all of them was Bansko in Bulgaria.
The town is two hours away from the capital of Sofia and is known for its ski resorts and a beautiful mountain landscape.
In the pretty Bulgarian destination, hoppa found the average cost of a pint to be just 90p.
Some of the highest rated bars include Pirin 75 which has been praised for its cocktails, and the Happy End Bar which one visitor described as a “cracking apres ski bar”.
Other affordable aspects include a stay in a 3-star hotel which averages out at £57.
Sun Travel found a five-night stay between December 15-20 at the Hotel Tanne in Bansko works out at just £47.60 per person per night.
The four-star hotel is found at the foot of the Pirin Mountains and is perfect for skiers as it’s 300 metres from the gondola lift.
Rooms have mountain views and guests can relax at the on-site spa centre which has a hot mineral water pool, salt room, herb sauna, an outdoor Japanese bath and a pool with hydro beds and water cannons.
There’s also a gym, café, Viennese lounge and piano bar.
A five-night stay in the Hotel Tanne in December costs from £47.60pppnCredit: Booking.comThe hotel also has an on-site spa centre with pools and a herb saunaCredit: Booking.com
It’s even become cheaper and moved from sixth to third place after a 2.8 per cent drop in costs.
In the study, the average cost of a six-day ski pass and ski/boot hire for one person plus ski school (five-six half days), a range of drinks and lunch on the slopes cost £572.14 in Bansko.
Whereas in the likes of Cervinia, La Thuile and Sestriere in Italy all costs came in at over £700.
The most expensive was in Zermatt in Switzerland which came in at £1,345.76pp.
Away from the slopes, other popular activities in Bansko include trekking up Vihren, exploring Pirin Street, visiting the Neofit Rilski Museum and Velyanova House.
The one downside to Bansko is that it doesn’t have an airport.
However, the closest one is in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria where flights in December are as little as £16.
Certain places like Hotel Tanne will supply airport shuttles with journeys taking around two hours.
After Alex Scott smuggled salt and pepper into the camp, Shona McGarty is the second celeb to bring contraband into the I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here camp
12:57, 25 Nov 2025Updated 12:58, 25 Nov 2025
Extraordinary way Shona McGarty smuggled air freshener into I’m A Celeb camp(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
I’m A Celeb hosts Ant and Dec have shed light on how Shona McGarty smuggled a huge can of air freshener into the camp. Fans were left mystified when producers spotted Alex Scott’s tiny stolen salt and pepper packets but failed to notice the EastEnders‘ star’s much bigger contraband until she revealed it herself.
During the episode that aired on 24 November, Alex was caught with her smuggled goods and campmates were all punished together, losing one star off their dinner. Bosses demanded that campmates produce all contraband, at which point, Shona revealed she had been hiding an enormous can of air freshener.
Viewers struggled to understand how she hid such a big item and how she got it into the camp in the first place. One said on social media: “I think we’re all baffled as to how Shona managed to smuggle a can of air freshener in.”
But Ant and Dec have now revealed how she did it. On Unpacked after the show, the pair addressed the situation and said they think they know how she did it.
When asked who they thought might face the next task, the hosts hypothesised that the campmates who brought in contraband might be punished. “Will it be Shona for smuggling in that air freshener?” asked Dec.
“Where did she hide that? Where does one hide an air freshener?” asked Ant, prompting his co-host to say he thought he knew what had happened. “I think I know where she got it. She nicked it from the trial.”
Kemi Rogers asked if she hid it under her top, and Ant said he didn’t know, but Dec was sure that she must have stolen it from a Bushtucker Trial rather than bringing it all the way from the UK.
A few days ago, Shona, alongside Alex, Jack Osbourne and Martin Kemp faced a Bushtucker Trial where they were locked in cages, sitting on makeshift toilets. The group had to try and retrieve stars from where they were bolted to bars in front of them, as bugs fell from above them.
Though the trial did not involve air freshener, and as such, none was visible to audiences, production may have had one on hand, which Shona may then have swiped.
Shona’s campmates didn’t seem to happy with her secret antics. Martin Kemp headed to the Bush Telegraph to call her out for smuggling the air freshener in, as did Jack who said: “There’s always one.” Kelly Brook added: “I thought we were a team.”
IT’S the most wonderful time of the year, as Brits flock to Christmas markets to browse festive gifts and sip piping hot mulled wine.
Now, the country’s best eight spots for top-notch Christmas markets have been revealed, but notably missing one major city.
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The UK’s best cities for Christmas markets in 2025 have been revealedChester Christmas market made the list, but some major cities missed outCredit: Getty
A survey of 4,000 people by consumer champion Which has revealed Brits’ favourite Christmas market destinations all over the country.
The top eight cities were: Bath, Chester, Durham, Winchester, Wells, Liverpool, Edinburgh, York and Belfast.
This means that Manchester was a glaring exception to the list, despite its markets offering 200 stalls across nine locations this year in the popular northern city.
The selection offers something for everyone, from quaint cobbled lanes to grand squares and gothic cathedrals.
Bath is already a tourist hotspot, a Regency gem which was voted the UK’s best medium-sized city this year.
It’s market offers 200 chalets where punters can peruse a massive selection of goods, with many of the stallholders based in the South West.
Expect everything from foraged jam to pet gifts.
In Northern Ireland, Belfast plays host to a market ideal for foodies, from crocodile burgers to local produce every weekend.
It also includes a funfair, and takes place at the steps of the grand Victorian City Hall building.
If you are looking to spot some WAGs doing a spot of Christmas browsing, Chester would be the city to head to.
With its 80 stalls spiralling out from it’s gothic town hall, customers will be delighted with the range of indie options like artisan liqueurs available in this footballer-favourite city.
It is also one of the better cities for accessibility like parking and lack of crowds.
Another historic northern city, Durham’s festive market is a handmade affair, with optional tickets to gain admission to the crafts and gift marquee of 120 stalls costing £4.50.
The free section of the market only has 30 stalls, so more minimalist than some of the others.
It lasts two days, between 5 and 7 December, so worth bearing in mind it could be extremely popular.
Scotland’s offering is found on the iconic East Princes Street in Edinburgh, where revellers can enjoy typical festive options like stocking fillers and gluhwein in the shadow of the city’s imposing castle.
The fair also has a Ferris wheel, and the market lasts into early January, offering the perfect place to celebrate Hogmanay.
Liverpool was crowned the best big city, and it’s Christmas market looks set to live up to the city’s top-rated culture and shopping.
St George’s Hall, with its statuesque columns and strings of twinkling lights, offers a beautiful backdrop to the festivities.
Down in Somerset, Wells has long been a hidden gem, with it’s 850 year old cathedral and moat filled with swans which was immortalised in the 2007 film Hot Fuzz.
In beautiful Wells, the Christmas market is a fleeting affairCredit: GettyIn the past, Wells Christmas market has included reindeer, to the delight of childrenCredit: Alamy
This is very much a market by and for locals, offering gifts crafted in the community, and some regional fare.
Another city most well-known for its stunning cathedral, Winchester is a classy pick for a refined market-goer.
The stalls are set out in front of the ancient landmark, and punters will peruse hand-painted buttons and horsehair brushes.
At the York Christmas Festival, traders operate out of alpine chalets decked with tinsel and wreaths.
Known for its winding lanes and generous Yorkshire hospitality, the city’s market is a staple, as it has been going for over 30 years.
It is a fantastic place to browse for gifts- anything from food and drink to art prints.
The list was created from Which’s best UK cities survey, which means every spot also boasts good-quality food and cultural activities as well as their markets.
Other cities which nearly made the cut included Newcastle, for its top-scoring food and drink offering, Glasgow for its cultural sites, and London, which boasts a plethora of markets.
Which also recommended the UK’s prettiest villages which might be worth a trip or stay this Christmas for their chocolate-box scenery.
These included Avebury in Wiltshire, with its thatched cottages and prehistoric circles.
Another good option would be Llangollen, a picturesque Welsh town with stunning views over the River Dee.
In Edinburgh, the market takes place in a spectacular settingCredit: Alamy Live NewsThe city’s historic streets are always a good option for Christmas shoppingCredit: Alamy
TO the deafening screams of 60,000 fans in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Noel and Liam Gallagher took their final bow on the last night of their epic, 41-date Oasis reunion tour last night.
And now all us fans are talking about is what will come next for the brothers — with rumblings about possible shows at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester and Knebworth, Herts, along with whispers about a new greatest hits album.
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The Gallagher brothers pictured on stage after reuniting after years of estrangementCredit: Getty
Noel had previously put a record together featuring Oasis classics and B-sides from the band’s four albums released between 2000 and 2009.
But Liam put paid to his plans for the release, with Noel later admitting in 2023: “He wouldn’t have it in the end — I don’t know why.
“I gave up f***ing arguing.”
Insiders said reprising this project is among plans being floated behind the scenes.
“This tour has gone better than anyone could have imagined,” my source tells me.
“Noel and Liam will both be taking a long break to compute the magnitude of this tour.
“Being back together on stage has been incredible for both of them, and to have guitarist Bonehead back with them for the last shows has been nothing short of phenomenal.
“They’re aware of what their fans want and know the demand would be there if they did decide to put out a new greatest hits album — or to play more shows.”
So far, five separate music insiders have told me about the proposed Etihad residency next summer, along with a slew of shows at Knebworth.
Offers have also been made to Oasis to play Coachella in the US and Benicassim in Spain.
My insider added: “Steven Knight’s film from behind the scenes of the tour will give fans something to look forward to while they wait for Noel and Liam to decide what is coming up next.
“The offers are theirs for the taking.”
Those close to the pair insist there are no plans on the table right now.
But given how quickly the initial reunion came to pass, I’d put nothing past Noel and Liam.
The latter is definitely keen to keep the momentum, posting on X last week: “We need to sit down and discuss these things.
“If it was all up to me then you know we’d be touring till the day we die as it’s the best thing in the world but unfortunately it’s not.”
Noel, you know what you have to do.
Noel and Liam Gallagher took their final bow on the last night of their epic, 41-date Oasis reunion tour last night
SZA AND SHABS’ SWEET MUSIC
HER two studio albums have been packed with songs about love, loss and everything in between, so I’m sure SZA will have plenty to write about on her next record, as she is dating again.
The Kill Bill singer, who headlined Glastonbury last year, is believed to be secretly seeing Shaboozey, who is best known for his No3 hit A Bar Song (Tipsy) which soared up the charts last summer.
SZA is believed to be secretly seeing ShaboozeyCredit: GettyShaboozey was linked to model Emily Ratajkowski last yearCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
While she previously dated rapper Drake, Shaboozey was linked to model Emily Ratajkowski last year.
And now they have grown close and are constantly liking each other’s posts on social media.
They attended a GQ Men of the Year party together in Los Angeles earlier this month, but made sure to maintain their distance, in a bid to keep their romance quiet.
However, they’ve both got eager fanbases who are over the moon about the prospect of these two becoming an item.
One thing’s for sure: if they make a song together, it will be fantastic.
THE WEEK IN BIZNESS
WEDNESDAY: The newly restored Beatles Anthology series will finally be available to stream on Disney+, with the first three episodes added.
Three more will follow on Thursday and the final three – including a brand new ninth episode – will be out on Friday.
THURSDAY: You can head back to the Eighties as the first volume of the fifth and final series of Stranger Things hits Netflix.
Four episodes will be available to binge this week, before more on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
FRIDAY: JESSIE J will make a triumphant return to the charts with her first album in eight years, Don’t Tease Me With A Good Time.
It is expected to become her fourth record to reach the top five.
KATY’S LIMB AND A STAIR
KATY PERRY prompted a few stairs from people as she fooled about on an escalator.
The singer did practically everything but stand politely to one side as she performed the splits both the right way up and upside down.
Katy Perry fooled about on an escalator on InstagramCredit: Instagram/Cynthia ParkhurstKaty wrote on Instagram: ‘Doing all the things your mom said not to do on the escalator’Credit: Instagram/Cynthia ParkhurstThe pics were taken on the set of the video to her latest single BandaidsCredit: Instagram/Cynthia Parkhurst
She then appeared to take a snooze on the handrail in snaps taken on the set of the video to her latest single Bandaids.
Katy, whose shoelace is seen getting stuck in the moving staircase in the promo, wrote on Instagram: “Doing all the things your mom said not to do on the escalator but also: myth-busting a childhood fear. You’re welcome.”
Myths busted or not, I think I’ll stick to using them as intended.
Bizbit
THE festive season is already in full swing judging by the charts, with Wham!’s Last Christmas set to hit the Top Ten this Friday.
I’ve not even thought about putting up my tree yet but with a month to go, eight more seasonal favourites are expected to enter the charts – including Kylie Minogue track Xmas, which is at No33.
Meanwhile, Raye’s Where Is My Husband! is battling Taylor Swift’s tune The Fate Of Ophelia for No1.
DENISE: I’LL SLAYYY TOP TEN
DESPITE five No1 albums, THE 1975 have never topped the singles chart.
Now frontman Matty Healy’s mum, actress Denise Welch, is aiming to rub their noses in it by trying for the Christmas No1.
Denise Welch has recorded a Christmas songCredit: Michael Leckie/PinPep
Yes, you did read that right. Today she has surprised the nation with an unexpected festive hyperpop single titled Slayyy Bells.
Described as “part carol, part club classic”, the song is being released in collaboration with choccy brand Celebrations.
Loose Women star Denise, above, said: “I love Christmas, but sometimes I want to shake things up a bit.
“We don’t always have to have turkey, or do charades.
“We can celebrate this special holiday our way. This remix, apart from being cool, catchy and a sure-fire hit, is all about having fun.
I’m A Celebrity fans have already picked their finalists after just a few days of the ITV competition’s new series, with three stars in the running for King or Queen of the Jungle
Ant and Dec have had a roaring start to this year’s I’m A Celeb(Image: ITV)
I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here has only been back on our screens for a few days, however some viewers have already picked their final three contestants – and it’s an unlikely trio. The 2025 series kicked off on Sunday night, with the likes of Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp, presenter Alex Scott, comedian Eddie Kadi and TV personality Jack Osbourne entering camp.
However, some fans are already predicted which three stars will make it to this year’s final – and many are backing rapper Aitch, comedian Ruby Wax and YouTuber star Angry Ginge – real name Morgan Burtwistle. Taking to X, one fan wrote alongside a picture of the three: “If this ain’t the final 3, I don’t want it #ImACeleb.”
Another replied: “Great jungle trio.” A third person wrote: “Final 3 are 1. Ruby 2. Aitch 3. Ginge #ImACeleb.” A fourth tweeted: “Aitch is the cutest!! I truly hope he gets to the final!! #ImACeleb.”
“Just want Aitch and Ginge in the Final, that’s all I care about #ImACeleb,” another said. A sixth wrote: “Love watching Ruby Wax since ‘Girls On Top’ in the 80’s. She needs to be kept in that camp until the final. #ImACeleb.”
While others were impressed with Aitch’s performance in last night’s Bushtucker Trial, which saw him win 10 stars for camp. “Definitely voting for Aitch to win #ImACeleb fellow manc he bossed that bush tucker trial. I think it will be out of him and Kelly Brook in the final,” one fan said.
Another wrote: “I’m not even familiar with Ginge or Aitch because I’m too old, but they have the potential to go all the way to the final i think! Great attitudes. #ImACeleb.”
It comes after some fans were calling for Ruby to be kicked off the show after some viewers considered her introductory conversation with Angry Ginge to be rude. When asked by Alex Scott what they should call him when the group arrived on the show, Angry Ginge said: “Ginge or Morgan.” Ruby replied: “We’ll never call you that.”
When asked what his surname is, Angry Ginge said: “Burtwistle,” with Ruby quipping: “Oh, I see why you changed it. It’s so not cool.” She later asked him to “get out of [her] way” in front of the cameras, joking: “Don’t ever in this show get in my way. Do you understand?
“Especially when there’s a light. You’re in my light again. I’ll just be moving you throughout the show, okay?”
However, the pair seem to have grown close on the show, having taken part in the very first Bushtucker Trial in Monday night’s episode. Ruby even said that she knew Ginge would have her back in the challenge.
I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here continues tonight at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
Adam Peaty and Holly Ramsay have a VERY pricey wedding gift listCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThis £1.8k BBQ is just one of the lavish gifts the couple have asked for on their wedding listIt comes as it is revealed that Adam’s mum is no longer invited to his weddingCredit: ShutterstockThe couple are busy planning their huge weddingCredit: Instagram
Taking to Instagram, Caroline shared a quote which read, “The moment you realise: the little sister who once drove you crazy is now the one who keeps you sane.
“Your loudest supporter and forever best friend.”
Her post continued, “She eventually becomes the comfort zone which every elder sister secretly needed all along.”
Caroline wrote alongside the upload, “Louise I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being my protector through this difficult time x.
“To the people are being so cruel to my sister, please stop. Sadly you obviously don’t understand the bond of sisters,” she said.
Caroline’s sister Louise had spoken out against Holly after it was revealed that Caroline hadn’t been invited to her hen do at Soho Farmhouse.
This £350 BABY changing table can also be bought for the couple
POLICE CALLED
Ina further twist in the ongoing feud, it was reported that Holly called the police while her husband-to-be was on his stag do in Budapest.
Diane Ladd’s cause of death has come to light, weeks after the three-time Oscar-nominated “Rambling Rose” and “Wild at Heart” star died at age 89.
The actor died of “acute on chronic hypoxic respiratory failure,” according to her death certificate obtained by People. The Cleveland Clinic says the condition is a result of insufficient oxygen in a person’s blood and is commonly caused by heart and lung conditions.
The death certificate reportedly notes that Ladd had the latter. Two years before her death, Ladd was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a disease wherein “lung tissue becomes damaged and scarred,” according to the Mayo Clinic. Esophageal dysmotility —disorders that affect the esophagus’ ability to move food and liquid to a person’s stomach — also contributed to Ladd’s death, People reported.
Ladd was cremated on Nov. 10, a week after her death, the death certificate reportedly said.
Laura Dern, Ladd’s daughter with prolific Oscar-nominated actor Bruce Dern, announced her mother’s death Nov. 3: “My amazing hero and my profound gift of a mother, Diane Ladd, passed with me beside her this morning, at her home in Ojai.”
“She was the greatest daughter, mother, grandmother, actress, artist and empathetic spirit that only dreams could have seemingly created,” Dern, Oscar-winning star of “Marriage Story,” said in her statement. “We were blessed to have her.”
Bruce Dern, the first of Ladd’s three husbands, praised his ex-wife for her work on- and off-screen, including her longtime tenure as a Screen Actors Guild board member.
“She was a great teammate to her fellow actors. She was funny, clever, gracious,” he said. “But most importantly to me, she was a wonderful mother to our incredible wunderkind daughter. And for that I will be forever grateful to her.”
Mississippi native Ladd was an enduring talent whose screen career included more than 200 movie and TV credits from the 1960s to the 2020s, and multiple Emmy and Oscar nominations. Famously, she appeared in director Martin Scorsese and writer Robert Getchell’s 1974 feature “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” originating the role of snarky roadside-diner waitress Florence Jean “Flo” Castleberry.
When Ladd was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in 2023, she was told she might have only six months to live. This inspired Laura Dern to take her mother out for strolls along Santa Monica, sparking intimate conversations that would become fodder for their joint book, “Honey, Baby, Mine,” released in April 2023.
“All the deep listening filled us with love,” Ladd told People amid the book’s release. “And it was very healing.”
DIANE LADD’s cause of death has been revealed after the Oscar-nominated actress died aged 89.
Her daughter, Laura Dern revealed she had passed away on Monday, November 3 just two months after her husband’s unexpected passing.
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Diane Ladd’s cause of death has been revealedCredit: SplashThe death of the beloved star came just two months after the sudden passing of her husbandCredit: Getty
Diane’s cause of death has been revealed as acute on chronic hypoxic respiratory failure, according to PEOPLE.
Having obtained the star’s death certificate, the outlet said interstitial lung disease, which she had suffered for years beforehand, was one condition leading to her death.
Esophageal dysmotility was listed as another contributing factor – she was reportedly cremated on November 10.
Ladd’s daughter, the actress Laura Dern, shared the sad news of her death in an emotional statement earlier this month.
“My amazing hero and my profound gift of a mother, Diane Ladd, passed with me beside her this morning, at her home in Ojai, Ca,”Laura‘s statement began.
“She was the greatest daughter, mother, grandmother, actress, artist and empathetic spirit that only dreams could have seemingly created.
“We were blessed to have her.
“She is flying with her angels now,” Laura concluded.
TheOscar-nominated actress was 89 years old and appeared to have no plans of slowing down anytime soon, as her last social media post shared her latest project.
In September, the actress posted apromotional photoon Instagram for her new film, The Last Full Measure, which was recently released on various streaming platforms.
Diane also shared a screengrab of one of her scenes in the movie, opposite Christopher Plummer.
She gushed about the production, which was halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and her co-stars, including Peter Fonda, William Hurt, Ed Harris, Samuel L. Jackson, and Sebastian Stan.
Diane also teased a potential career pivot into podcasting, sparking a slew of comments from fans excited for what’s to come for the movie star.
Her death came two months after her husband, Robert Charles Hunter,suddenly passed.
Diane Ladd’s Nominations and Awards
Diane Ladd sadly passed away on November 3, 2025, with her daughter, actress Laura Dern, at her bedside. The movie star was famously known for her incredible performances in front of the camera. Here’s a look at all of Diane’s nominations and awards throughout her decades-long career.
Academy Awards Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1975) – Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Nominee) Wild at Heart (1991) – Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Nominee) Rambling Rose (1992) – Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Nominee)
BAFTA Awards Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1975) – Best Supporting Actress (Winner)
Primetime Emmy Awards Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman (1993) – Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series (Nominee) Grace Under Fire (1994) – Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series (Nominee) Touched by an Angel (1997) – Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series (Nominee)
Golden Globes Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1975) – Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture (Nominee) Alice (1981) – Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television (Winner) Wild at Heart (1991) – Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture (Nominee) Rambling Rose (1992) – Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture (Nominee)
Robert, the former PepsiCo CEO, was 77 when he died in August while visiting his family in Fort Worth, Texas.
He was Diane’s third husband, following her marriage to Laura’s father, Bruce Dern, from 1960 to 1969, and businessman William Shea Jr. from 1973 to 1976.
Diane and Robert’s love story began when they met in Sedona, Arizona, and got married in 1999.
They launched a production company together, though Diane is most known for her showstopping performances in front of the camera.
The Mississippi native was nominated three times for an Academy Award for her work in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974), Wild at Heart (1990), and Rambling Rose (1991).
Diane is survived by her daughter, Laura, and her two grandchildren, Ellery and Jaya Harper.
Kelly Brook’s Heart colleague and friend Toby Anstis backs his ‘bonkers’ friend to make the final three – as he also discloses her unusual jungle prep
16:00, 17 Nov 2025Updated 16:35, 17 Nov 2025
Kelly Brook is set to wow fans in the Jungle but has one huge fear(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
I’m a Celeb star Kelly Brook’s worst jungle nightmare has been revealed. Kelly’s close pal and Heart colleague Toby Anstis has backed his “bonkers” friend to make the final three – and revealed her pre-jungle prep involved scoffing sausage rolls.
Toby said the public would fall in love with her “funny, quirky and eccentric” side – which included a unique take on getting ready for life in camp.
He admits: “The last thing I saw her taking a bite of was a sausage roll, and she said: ‘Toby, I’m getting ready for starving in camp.’ I said you don’t really want to be doing that, you want to be slowing down your eating before you go in….you’ve got to train your tummy not to want food, but there you go. She eats well but she likes a bit of junk food, like we all do.”
Before going into the Jungle, Kelly previously said she had every intention to go to the gym, and even go on hikes to prepare her body. But she later admitted she had taken a different approach instead, saying: “I haven’t done any of that…I have also been fattening myself up in the run-up.”
Despite this, Toby – who took part on the show in 2006 – backed his friend to get to the final of the ITV show. But he said he feared for her doing the eating trials – calling them her “worst nightmare”.
He admits: “I did the show a few years ago, and she was asking me all about it. The main concern for her was having to eat those horrible things, and she was hoping not to do that…that’s her worst nightmare. But I think she’ll be really popular on it, and be in the last three. I think it will be her, Martin Kemp and Angry Ginge.”
Toby says the public will quickly learn to love her. He says: “I don’t think she’ll mind me saying that. She is eccentric…she has these English Rose quirks about her. Things that she says. She’s sort of an old soul on young shoulders. She is quite wise, that kind of eccentricity. She’s brilliant and slightly bonkers at the same time.”
But Toby admitted there could still endure some tough times. “When you are thrown in there and you get cabin fever and it’s hot and the days are long and there’s nothing to do, it depends on the mix of people and the personalities and if you don’t click it can be quite hard,” he says.
She said: “Obviously, I am not a 20-year-old bikini model anymore. You know, life changes and your body changes. And I just hope people are accepting of me and how I look now, and not comparing me to how I used to look. You know, I am a very different person. I am older, but I am still strong and I am still fit, and that is the most important thing.” Instead, she said she had “embraced” her curves.
“I feel really confident. I feel like my body is in good shape. I just feel great,” she says. “I am 46, I embrace my curves. I embrace my body. I ran a marathon this year….so I am proud of that.”
KIM Kardashian broke down in tears and sobbed in the days leading up to her law exam.
The reality TV star, 45, finally took the California bar after seven years of studying but she was ultimately unsuccessful.
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Kim Kardashian was left in tears in the days leading up to her bar examCredit: Instagram/kimkardashianShe could not stop crying as she spoke on the difficulties of her law journeyCredit: Instagram/kimkardashianThe vlog showcased her final two weeks studying for the examCredit: Instagram/kimkardashian
It was revealed earlier this month that she hadn’t passed but Kim has remained determined to try again in the hopes of qualifying as a practising lawyer.
Now, the All’s Fair actress has shared an intimate look at her two weeks leading up to the exam in which she shunned all other work commitments to focus on her studies.
The nine-minute social media vlog features an emotional scene in which a bare-faced Kim can be seen sobbing in bed after a long day of studying for her exam.
Heavily emotional, Kim spoke to the camera as she opened up about her law journey difficulties.
Kim said: “F***, I’m gonna film this because oh my god I am just so tired.
“It is like every time I feel like I am a step ahead, something happens to try and stop me from doing this.
“A part of me just wants to stop.
“I feel like my brain is going to explode and i still have so much more to go.”
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Whilst Kim didn’t expand on what was stopping her from studying, she was clearly suffering with problems relating to her back during the two-week period the video was filmed.
She confirmed her back had “given out” and was causing her pain.
Kim wore a large back brace throughout most of the clips in the video in order to help with the pain.
She also revealed she had undergone an MRI scan which confirmed she was dealing with some issues relating to the discs in her back.
Despite her initial worries, she admitted she was feeling confident the day before the exam and was looking forward to taking on the challenge.
The news that Kim hadn’t passed the bar exam came at the same time as her hotly-anticipated legal drama, in which she plays a lawyer, Allura Grant, premiered across the world.
Kim leads the show alongside a cast of stars including Glenn Close, Sarah Paulson, Naomi Watts and Nicey Nash.
Confirming the news earlier this month, the billionaire said: “Well… I’m not a lawyer yet, I just play a very well-dressed one on TV.
“Six years into this law journey, and I’m still all in until I pass the bar. No shortcuts, no giving up – just more studying and even more determination.”
Kim was working hard to attain her goal of being a lawyerCredit: Instagram/kimkardashianThe Hollywood icon took two weeks off work to fully dedicate herself to practiseCredit: InstagramKim has been on her law journey since 2018Credit: Getty
Cleto Escobedo III died at the age of 59 on November 11.Credit: GettyJimmy Kimmel paid tribute to his ‘inseparable’ childhood friend as he launches two fundraisers in his honorCredit: Getty
Now, his death certificate, seen by TMZ, reveals his cause of death was cardiogenic shock – a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood around the body.
But it further detailed other underlying health issues that contributed to his death.
It listed Vasodilatory shock (dangerously low blood pressure), disseminated intravascular coagulation (blood clots leading to organ damage) and alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver (advanced liver disease).
Other conditions including sepsis, chronic kidney disease, and pneumonia were also noted as underlying issues.
ON the hunt for a bargain festive getaway? Forget the traditional European spots — as this year Vilnius is the place to head.
New research has revealed the capital of Lithuania is the most wallet-friendly destination for a Christmas market break, with low-cost accommodation plus ginger bread and mulled wine galore.
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A getaway in Lithuania sets holidaymakers back significantly less than a short break in any other European destinationCredit: GettyVilnius in Lithuania came out on top in the Post Office’s annual Christmas Markets Barometer reportCredit: GettyVilnius in Lithuania is the cheapest city in Europe for accommodation and travel
According to the Post Office’s annual Christmas Markets Barometer report, a two-night getaway in the historic city will set holidaymakers back significantly less than a short break in any other European destination.
The study looked at the cost of six basic holiday items in 15 countries that are popular for a festive break — to calculate where travellers would get the most bang for their buck in 2025.
These holiday items included B&B accommodation, return flights or Eurostar travel, coffees, and three-course dinners for two with wine.
It found the total cost of all of these essentials in Vilnius came to £508.94, with travel and accommodation being the leading cause for its affordability.
The costing is dramatically less here than it would be in other destinations.
The study found that the city has not been affected by inflation in terms of holiday costs, with prices 0.4 per cent lower than they were in last year’s Christmas Markets Barometer.
In second place on the barometer is Riga in Latvia, which has been shown to be eight per cent more expensive than Vilnius overall, although comparatively general items, such as ginger bread or stollen at the market and a three-course meal for two, cost less.
Laura Plunkett, Head of Travel Money at Post Office, said: “Sterling’s drop in value is an important factor for travellers to consider before booking a trip because this varies between currencies.
“The pound’s fall against the euro is smaller than against other European currencies — five per cent compared with 10.6 per cent against the Hungarian forint and 10.9 per cent against the krona in Sweden.”
If it is mulled wine you have got your eyes on, this year’s research suggests that Bratislava in Slovakia is the best place to get enjoy it without splashing the cash.
This destination came in third place overall but had the most affordable tipples, with four glasses of mulled wine priced at £10.77, more than £7 less than it would cost in Vilnius.
Prices for all the holiday items had risen in Bratislava, in comparison to the previous year, with flights and accommodation soaring by 12.9 per cent, while meals, drinks and airport transfers have increased 8.5 per cent from 2024.
Poland has been revealed as one of the most affordable countries overall for a festive mini-break, with three cities making it into the top ten on the budget barometer.
Bratislava in Slovakia topped the survey for the most affordable mulled wine in European citiesCredit: GettyFour glasses of mulled wine would set you back just £10.77 in Bratislava
Gdansk, Warsaw and Krakow came in fourth, fifth and seventh place respectively with total holiday costs of £585.85, £588.97 and £674.17.
Despite being the most expensive of the Polish cities in general, Krakow is definitely the best place to head if you plan to load up on cake, stollen or gingerbread at the markets.
Here, it costs £10.56 on average for four portions of these sweet treats, which is less than half of what it would cost you in Warsaw (£22).
This still doesn’t compare to Stockholm, however, where visitors heading to the Christmas markets can get samples of these goodies for free.
At the other end of the scale, Copenhagen in Denmark was the priciest of all 15 destinations in the charts, with the total cost of all holiday items coming to a staggering £1,055.92 — more than double that of the cheapest spot, Vilnius.
Austrian capital Vienna was the second most expensive spot overall. However, the barometer shows that costs have fallen by 2.4 per cent since last year.
Laura Plunkett added: “Away from the Advent markets, there are tempting opportunities to shop for Christmas gift items.
But we advise holidaymakers to think carefully before using a credit or debit card to make payments as they are likely to end up paying some extra non-sterling transaction charges.
“Instead, consider loading spending money on to a pre-paid card such as the Post Office Travel Money Card, which is widely accepted and does not incur these transaction charges.”
Warsaw in Poland is one of three Polish cities inside the top seven in the Post Office surveyCredit: Getty
DUA Lipa helped music boost the UK economy to the tune of £8billion last year.
The singer — whose hits include New Rules and Levitating — was one of the industry’s biggest money-makers as its contribution to the country’s coffers leapt by five per cent.
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New Rules singer DUA Lipa helped music boost the UK economy to the tune of £8billion last yearCredit: Instagram/ sofia malamuteThere was more good news for the economy, thanks to Charli XCX’s global success with album BratCredit: GettyTours from Taylor Swift, above, Liam Gallagher, and Bruce Springsteen also drove the figuresCredit: AFP
She saw album Radical Optimism debut at No1 in the charts, while dates in Singapore, Japan and Malaysia took export revenues to a new high of £4.8billion.
The findings are in UK Music’s annual economic report This Is Music 2025.
It said the industry employs 220,000 people here, but warned growth was slowing down after taking off immediately after the pandemic.
UK Music’s Chief Executive Tom Kiehl welcomed the figures but issued warning signs amid the challenges faced by the sector.
He said: “In recent years UK Music has reported that the music industry has enjoyed double-digit annual growth.
“That growth has now halved indicates a levelling off of the immediate post-pandemic boost that we experienced, as well as other underlying issues set out in this report.
“This points to the need for urgent action. If problems are not addressed then future growth cannot be guaranteed.”
She shared a snap of her with sister Rina at River Plate’s match against rivals Boco Juniors after two gigs at the Buenos Aires stadium.
Take That were also big earners, helping to boost the economyCredit: GettyDua, left, on tour in Argentina, shared a snap of her with sister Rina at River Plate’s match against rivals Boco Juniors after two gigs at the Buenos Aires stadiumCredit: Instagram
Despite claims Ariana Grande, above, and Ethan Slater had called it quits after two years, I can confirm they are very much still togetherCredit: GettyAriana and Ethan, above, spent time together after the London premiere of Wicked: For GoodCredit: Getty
Insiders have told me the pair were aware of the talk around their romance and spent the night after the Wicked: For Good premiere in London holed up in her suite at the Mandarin Oriental hotel.
A source said: “Ariana and Ethan are still a couple but they’ve seen the chatter online and it’s not been easy.
“When Ariana left the after-party, she went back to her hotel suite.
“Not long after, Ethan was taken there and went up to see Ariana to spend time with her.
“They are aware of what is being said and it’s not easy for them but they’re doing the best they can to snatch some quiet moments when no one is watching.”
Yesterday they rejoined the rest of the cast, including Cynthia Erivo, to fly to Singapore for the next leg of the promo run ahead of the second movie’s release next Friday.
It has been a couple of months since speculation about their relationship went into overdrive, with fans questioning why Ethan didn’t join Ariana at the MTV VMAs in New York in September.
My insider added: “Once this next round of promo is completed for Wicked: For Good, Ariana and Ethan will be spending some time together out of the public eye.
“They’ve always preferred to be low-key and are happier just chilling at home together.
“No one is saying the past few months have been totally rosy but their relationship is still very much on.”
Hopefully this will shut down the TikTok trolls for a while.
Jacob Elordi says his favourite film isn’t a classic drama – it’s Scooby Doo’s Spooky IslandCredit: Getty
Bonehead was diagnosed with the disease before the tour kicked off in July and was “responding well” to treatment.
He then took a planned break for the next phase of his care.
Teasing his return, he tweeted an image of a flight path from London to Rio de Janeiro with the caption, “Incoming”, which was then reposted on Oasis’s official website.
The band have pulled off the seemingly impossible by making it through the tour without a mammoth bust-up between Liam and Noel Gallagher.
With that success, I’m sure these final five shows in Argentina, Chile and Brazil won’t be the last we hear from them.
You too can now look like Shakira – well, get locks like her anyway – as she has launched her award-winning haircare brand Isima in the UK.
It has been made available for the first time in Selfridges stores in London, Birmingham and Manchester after winning a string of awards in the States.
Kelly blasts boss’s boob
Kelly Clarkson has revealed how she hits back after a manager told her to get a boob job, joking: ‘Why don’t you get a d**k job?’Credit: Alamy
Kelly Clarkson has revealed she was once told to get a boob job by her manager.
Speaking on stage during her Las Vegas residency, the US singer said: “I had some d**k manager one time tell me to get a boob job. I was like, ‘Why don’t you get a d**k job?’
“Like, what? I’m fine with my itty-bitty t*tties. Get out of here. Who says that s**t? People say that s**t.
“They say it all the time to people in the industry. They say the craziest s**t.”
On how many stars in the music business have had cosmetic surgery, Kelly continued: “I’m like, ‘This is not normal. You’ve normalised crazy’ . . . everybody’s out here looking like they’re in The Capitol in The Hunger Games.
“[Just] do you. Don’t make me do you. I like my itty-bitty t*tties. They’ve served me well.”
TAYLOR Swift has asked model pal Gigi Hadid to be a bridesmaid for her blockbuster marriage to Travis Kelce, a source close to the superstar has told The U.S. Sun.
The multiple Grammy winning singer and NFL star fiancée are set to tie the knot next summer at a yet-to-be-revealed location.
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A source close to Taylor Swift has told The U.S. Sun that close pals Gigi Hadid and Selena Gomez are set to be part of her wedding partyCredit: GettyTaylor and NFL star Travis Kelce announced their engagement in August and are set to marry next summerCredit: The Mega Agency
FUTURE PLANS
But an insider has confirmed to The U.S. Sun that Taylor wants longtime friend Gigi, 30, to be part of the bridal party.
It’s understood the pair spoke about the plans during a dinner in New York City on Monday night.
Hadid, according to our source, was “thrilled” as she “wasn’t expecting” to be asked and accepted immediately.
The U.S. Sun also understands fellow pop princess Selena Gomez is also set to be named in the bridal party.
The insider says the Cruel Summer singer has already finalized a list and plans to tell everyone involved in person to ensure they know exactly what they mean to her.
“Taylor wants to start the wedding process this way — building her bridesmaid group and getting everyone involved in the preparations, celebrations, and planning,” said the source.
“She wants it to be fun and memorable for everyone, with parties, trips, and time spent together leading up to the big day.”
The global superstar also plans to get advice from Selena, who has already been through a planning process following her wedding with Benny Blanco earlier this year.
She wants tips on food, flowers and any other organizational issues to ensure her special day really is one to remember.
Taylor was pictured with Hadid in Manhattan, in a rare appearance after taking a step away from the limelight recently.
In light of stalker issues and fears over public safety, she has been seen less in public, and has even been avoiding watching Kelce in action for the Super Bowl chasing Kansas City Chiefs.
The U.S. Sun revealed last weekend that the couple are now spending a whopping $8 million on security.
The location of the wedding is yet to be confirmed, with the couple contemplating venues in United States and Europe, including their beloved Italy.
Selena Gomez has been helping friend Taylor Swift with some wedding planning, following her own nuptials earlier this yearCredit: Instagram/selenagomez
RAPPER Chris Brown footed a £160,240 booze bill during a wild night out in London.
The US star — on bail for assault — partied with his entourage in the capital ahead of his trial next year.
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Rapper Chris Brown footed a staggering booze bill during a wild night out in LondonCredit: GettyBrown’s bill included five bottles of Cristal Magnum aT £2,900 eachA receipt from Brown’s wild night showed the total bill of more than £160,000Credit:
One session involved at least four bottles of £2,900-a-time Louis Roederer Cristal Magnum Champagne at the Selene nightclub, which promises “the epitome of ultimate pleasure”.
Days later, the West End club posted the anonymous megabucks receipt on social media.
Some of those who partied with him — including models and other rappers — have revealed Chris footed the bill.
His entourage also posted the receipt alongside shots of a private jet and luxury hotel suites from his ten-day visit, after he flew in on October 18.
EXCLUSIVE: With the Celebrity Traitors final just hours away, a PR expert has revealed which stars are coming out to TV opportunities – and which have been left worse off
17:37, 06 Nov 2025Updated 17:40, 06 Nov 2025
The Celebrity Traitors real winners and losers have been revealed by an expert(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Studio Lambert/Euan Cherry)
The Celebrity Traitors airs its huge finale tonight on BBC One – and while fans are asking whether the Traitors or Faithful will win the game, others are wondering what’s next for its viral stars. Tonight’s episode will see finalists Alan Carr, Cat Burns, David Olusoga, Nick Mohammed and Joe Marler compete for the chance to win up to £100,000 for their chosen charities.
However, celebrity PR specialist Kayley Cornelius has revealed who the real winners from the BBC One series are – as well as who hasn’t come of as well as they had hoped. One of those coming out on top is ex rugby player Joe Marler, who is rumoured to be taking on a big presenting role with the BBC after the show.
Speaking on behalf of Online Casino provider Slingo, Kayley said that Joe has gained a whole new fanbase thanks to the Celebrity Traitors. “He has a lot to gain from this show – he’s recently retired from his sporting career and stepped into this new chapter of his life,” she said.
“Celebrity Traitors was his first bash at giving a reality career a try and he’s going to attract a lot of new listeners to his podcast. People have been so impressed with how clever he’s been throughout the process. He’s proven himself as being entertaining, clever, he comes across very well on screen.
“I can see him being lined up for every show under the sun – he’s probably going to be on Strictly next. He would be perfect for the glitz and glam. He’s such a good team player and he’s from sport so has discipline. He’s going to be a very booked and busy man.”
However, he’s not the only finalist who’ll be going on to bigger and better things – Kayley reveals that Cat Burns’ brand awareness has shot up thanks to the show. “She entered as this quiet underdog among line-up of really well known names. This show was a great opportunity for brand awareness for her,” she said.
“She’s just had to push back her tour but I have no doubt that it is going to sell out in no time. She’ll be able to headline bigger stages, do more arena-based shows. She might get a support slot on a stadium tour. It’s an exciting time where she’s going to be in demand.”
Kayley added that Cat could also go into fashion after showing off her style on Celebrity Traitors. “Some of her looks from the show, she came across as like quite cool, quite grungy and I think that aesthetic from an editorial sense, she’ll probably make thousands off the back of that.”
While there are rumours that the treacherous Alan Carr could become the next host of Strictly Come Dancing, Kayley doesn’t think it would be the right fit for the standout star. “When I think about what he will realistically do next, I can’t imagine it being Strictly,” she said.
“I think with the position that Strictly Come Dancing is in at the moment, as they’re recovering from these scandals, I think they want to keep two female presenters so I don’t know if I can quite see him taking Strictly on, even though it would be brilliant.
“I suppose for Alan, he’s just made a nation fall in love with him again and there’s chats of Chatty Man being revived – I can see it.”
As for the stars who haven’t found success from the show, YouTube star Niko Omilana is one of them thanks to his early banishment. The influencer was the first person to be accused of being a Traitor on the show and left in episode two.
“Niko unfortunately has lost out on quite a lot from doing this show,” Kayley said. “This is the kind of move that should have been a massive career break for Niko as he goes from online reality star into a mainstream celebrity. Like what we’re witnessing with George Clarke on Strictly at the moment.
“Unfortunately, with him being on the show for such a short amount of time, he wasn’t in there long enough to make much of an impact on this new audience.”
“I think Paloma might have some damage control to do,” Kayley says. “She’s quite angry with Alan Carr and how the game panned out. People might see her as a bit petty and a bit pathetic. Originally, the public said, ‘We need Paloma back – she was done so dirty.’ They’re now turning on her and saying she’s been a sore loser.
“From that perspective, she just needs to be a bit cautious and careful about how she speaks about her experience on the show and there might be more behind the scenes than we’re being let on to know at the minute, but I think if she is going to be a bad loser about this situation, it’s not going to go down well with viewers at home.”
Taylor Swift fans ‘screamed’ on Sunday evening’s results show after learning that Vicky Pattison will be dancing next week to the pop star’s latest single – The Fate of Ophelia
Jessica Clarke Digital Reporter
21:00, 02 Nov 2025
Taylor Swift fans are already looking forward to next week’s Strictly(Image: Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
After finding out that she was safe from the dreaded dance off, reality star Vicky Pattison was told what her dance and song choice would be for next week. Taylor Swift fans couldn’t contain their excitement on Sunday evening’s Strictly Come Dancing results show after learning that Vicky, 37, will be dancing next week to Taylor Swift’s latest single – The Fate of Ophelia.
Professional partner Kai Widdrington started dancing as a small clip of the song played and sent Swifties into a frenzy online. One person took to X, formally known as Twitter, and wrote: “Arrgghhh not @VickyPattison dancing to The Fate of Ophelia, I screamed Strictly…doing Taylor Swift…and it’s a race weekend, I may just burst with excitement”.
Another fan penned: “Omg Vicky and Kai are dancing to Ophelia next week. My life for a month has been dominated by life and of a Showgirl”, while a third chimed in: “As a Swiftie. I’m Super excited to see that Vicky and Kai are dancing to The Fate of Ophelia next week!! Let’s see this be an iconic performance”.
The track The Fate of Ophelia is the lead single off the album The Life Of A Showgirl which was released last month and features multiple references to her relationship with Travis Kelce.
She references a “megaphone”, a hint at the fact he reached out to her by screaming it out into the world on his podcast, rather than going through the usual ways.
Speaking about the new album, she said: “One thing about this album that I think is really exciting is that oftentimes when I make a record there’s like a lag time between when I made it and when it enters the world.
“Like for example, my last album, Tortured Post Department, by the time that album came out, I was in a completely different point in my life. With this one I would say that this album is a complete and total snapshot of what my life looks like right now.”
It comes after Vicky burst into tears on Saturday night’s Strictly after she performed the American Smooth with professional partner Kai. The dance, which was set to Bonnie Tyler’s Total Eclipse of the Heart, saw Vicky dressed as a white witch on theme for Halloween Week.
The dance went well and she received praise across the board from judges Craig Revel Horwood, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse and Shirley Ballas, eventually scoring 31 for her efforts and even a standing ovation.
Not only was Vicky pleased her hard work was paying off but she was left in utter shock when Motsi predicted that she will make the final.
Motsi said: “A few weeks ago, I couldn’t believe that you’d open our show. I loved the character play in the beginning, you did it so, so well. So for me, you are a contender for the final. Honestly. And I just want you to finish everything, make everything nice and clean.”
Motsi’s comment was met with cheers from the audience, and Vicky promptly broke down in tears of joy. Rushing over to be interviewed by Claudia Winkleman, her tears continued as she said: “I hated going first! Honestly, I loved this dance this week because for once I had a foundation to build on. I wasn’t just starting from scratch and feeling so inadequate. I was just desperate to prove that I have improved.”